Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held their first telephonic conversation following the ceasefire between the United States and Iran, sources said on Wednesday.

The two leaders spoke for around 45 minutes, discussing the evolving regional situation and the next steps after the ceasefire.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the Iranian leadership on agreeing to the ceasefire, praising its wisdom and foresight in de-escalating tensions.

During the conversation, the prime minister’s offer to host talks between Iran and the United States in Islamabad later this week was formally accepted by the Iranian side.

President Pezeshkian also confirmed that Iran would send a delegation to participate in the negotiations.

The Iranian president appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in facilitating the ceasefire and acknowledged the role played by Islamabad in promoting regional peace.

He also conveyed his best wishes for the people of Pakistan.

Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed respect for Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei and welcomed the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, praising Iran’s leadership for its decision.

Both sides also welcomed the start of negotiations aimed at achieving sustainable peace and expressed hope that the talks would yield positive results.